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Florida Swelters: Heat Advisories Grip 64 Counties
12 Aug
Summary
- Sixty-four of Florida's 67 counties are under heat advisories.
- Heat indices are forecast to reach 105-110 degrees for multiple days.
- A Bermuda High and an eastern-moving heat dome cause prolonged heat.
As of August 12, 2026, Florida is enduring a significant heat wave, with 64 of its 67 counties placed under heat advisories. This marks the second day this week that such warnings have been issued for nearly the entire state, affecting residents as the school year begins. Forecasts indicate multiple days of hazardous heat, with heat indices potentially reaching 105-110 degrees, and nighttime temperatures remaining high.
The extreme temperatures are largely due to atmospheric conditions. A Bermuda High positioned further east than usual is pumping heat and humidity into the region. Concurrently, a heat dome that previously impacted the western U.S. has shifted east, settling over the Southeast and prolonging the oppressive conditions throughout Florida this week.
Relief is not immediately in sight, with high temperatures in the mid-90s expected to continue through the week in cities like Orlando, Tampa, and Miami, accompanied by persistent humidity. While some respite might arrive over the weekend, it will still be hot and humid, with only isolated afternoon thunderstorms offering slight cooling. Rain chances are generally below normal due to drier air aloft, influenced by a Saharan Dust Layer, though any storms that do form could produce strong wind gusts and lightning.
